Baltic leaders slam 'land-for-peace' deal for Ukraine amid Trump-Putin talks plan
Photo: Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna (Getty Images)
The Baltic states sharply condemned attempts to pressure Ukraine into giving up territory, stressing their unwavering support for the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, reports Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže and Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna.
Braže said a just, lasting, and dignified peace is what everyone seeks, first and foremost, Ukrainians. She stressed that such peace must be based on respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and borders as defined by international law.
"Russia mustn’t be rewarded for aggression," Braže said.
Tsahkna, in turn, underscored the importance of Estonia's steadfast stance in support of Ukraine. He warned of the consequences of any attempt to change borders by force, saying it undermines the security of all nations.
"If nations can be forced to live under a bigger neighbour’s dictate, none are free. Sovereignty and territorial integrity are the cornerstones of global stability. We will not reward aggression — not in Ukraine, not anywhere," Tsahkna said.
He also pledged that Ukraine can count on Estonia's unwavering support in achieving a just and lasting peace.
The Baltic states have made clear they will not accept any attempts to push Ukraine into concessions that undermine its sovereignty.
Territorial concessions for Ukraine
US President Donald Trump recently floated the idea of a territorial swap between Russia and Ukraine. He announced that he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 15 in Alaska.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine will not give up its territory to Russian forces.
According to BILD, Putin has not abandoned his goal of fully controlling Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff misinterpreted Putin's statements and took them as a concession.
Specifically, Russia's proposal for a "peaceful withdrawal" of Ukrainians from Kherson and Zaporizhzhia was understood by Witkoff as an offer for a “peaceful withdrawal" of Russians from the same regions.
